Be Careful of What You Post

July 19, 2023

In today’s world, social media can be a powerful tool to stay connected with friends and family. However, its effects reach far beyond just communication; it has become a critical factor in the life of many New Jersey Family Law cases. Posts, messages, photos—all of these seemingly innocent conversations we have online can now come back to haunt us during consequential times, such as family law litigation.

As attorneys for both spouses try their best to build strong cases on either side, every piece of evidence counts—especially those found within our digital worlds. Read more below to be more informed about how social media could impact your current or future New Jersey Family Law settlement.

Overview of Social Media’s Impact on New Jersey Family Law Proceedings

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect with others. However, it has also caused a stir in the legal world, particularly in Family Law proceedings. In New Jersey, social media has significantly impacted Family Laws, with many legal professionals citing it as a factor in the rise of Family Law cases.

Social media can be used as evidence in Family Laws, as it often contains valuable information about a person’s behavior and can even lead to the discovery of hidden assets. Some judges have even ordered parties to share their social media passwords during the proceedings. 

With social media being such a prevalent part of our daily lives, it’s essential to be aware of its impact on legal matters, especially Family Law proceedings in New Jersey.

How Does Social Media Evidence Factor Into the Outcome of a Family Law?

Social media has become an ingrained part of our daily lives in the digital age. From posting pictures of our meals to sharing updates about our lives, we use social media to document every moment. However, this sharing culture has brought up a question in family law cases: how does social media factor into the outcome of a Family Law case?

Courts now admit social media evidence to prove adultery, infidelity, and other relevant information in Family Law proceedings. Social media evidence can also establish credibility or discredit a party’s testimony, significantly impacting the final outcome of the case. It is essential for anyone going through a Family Law to be mindful of their social media usage, as anything posted can potentially affect their case.

How Can Attorneys Use Social Media to Their Advantage in Court?

Courtroom

Social media has undoubtedly changed the game in recent years regarding legal cases and proceedings. Attorneys can now use various social media platforms to their advantage in the courtroom.

For example, social media can be used to gather information, such as evidence and witness statements, that can support a case. Attorneys can also monitor social media to identify potential jurors and assess their attitudes toward a case.

In addition, social media can be used to connect and engage with clients and build a strong reputation in the legal profession. With the right strategy, social media can provide various benefits for attorneys looking to build their cases and succeed in the courtroom.

The Implications on Spouses Who Are Dishonest About Their Online Activities

In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s easy to lose track of how much time we spend online and what we do while we’re there. For some people, those online activities might include things they’d rather keep secret from their spouses—from harmless distractions, like funny cat videos, to more serious behaviors, like chatting with an ex or visiting sites that could damage a relationship.

The implications of not being honest about these online activities can be severe. It erodes the trust that forms the foundation of any healthy relationship and can lead to feelings of betrayal or deceit. Over time, that lack of trust can damage the relationship beyond repair. Spouses need open and honest communication about their online activities to build and maintain a solid and healthy bond.

Tips for Preserving Your Digital Footprint During a New Jersey Family Law

In today’s digital age, we leave behind trails of information on the internet without even realizing it. And when it comes to Family Law cases, this digital footprint can impact the case outcome. However, with some careful consideration, you can preserve your digital presence during a Family Law case in New Jersey.

First and foremost, it is crucial to keep your social media profiles private and refrain from posting anything that could be used against you in court. Additionally, you should consider changing your passwords and usernames for all your accounts to prevent your ex-spouse from accessing them. 

Finally, backing up all your digital data, including emails and text messages, can help preserve evidence in case it is needed later. These tips can protect your online presence and ensure a fair outcome in your Family Law case.

The Legal Ramifications of Posting False or Defamatory Comments on Social Media

Social media platforms have become the go-to for people to vent their thoughts and feelings. However, it’s important to remember that your posts can have serious legal consequences. This is especially true when posting false information or defamatory comments about your ex-spouse.

While it may be tempting to air your grievances publicly, it’s essential to consider the potential legal ramifications. Not only could you face a lawsuit, but you could also damage your reputation in the process. It’s always best to think twice before hitting that “post” button and seek other outlets for expressing your frustrations.

Work With New Jersey Family Law Attorneys

The impact of social media on Family Law proceedings in New Jersey is becoming increasingly significant. Both parties need to be as transparent as possible about their online activity while going through a Family Law.

If you have any questions about how social media evidence could affect your New Jersey family law case or would like general legal advice about Family Law, Rigden Lieberman’s experienced team is here to help.

By Ronald G. Lieberman

Ronald G. Lieberman is a seasoned attorney with nearly 25 years of experience in all aspects of family/matrimonial law including divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, domestic violence, equitable distribution, college expenses, marital settlement agreements, high-end family and matrimonial litigation, and appellate matters before the Appellate Division.

Let's start work together

714 E. Main Street, 1B
Moorestown, NJ 08057

(856) 291-9777

Request A Consultation

 

Gillian
Divorce & Restraining Order
Lexie has been my attorney since 2018. I retained her when I filed for divorce and again when I needed to obtain a restraining order. She is the best of the best. She is professional, honest, and thorough. I would highly recommend her.
February 15, 2022

Gillian
Divorce & Restraining Order
Lexie has been my attorney since 2018. I retained her when I filed for divorce and again when I needed to obtain a restraining order. She is the best of the best. She is professional, honest, and thorough. I would highly recommend her.
February 15, 2022

Gillian
Gillian
Ryan D.
True 5 star Lawyer
Alexandra is by far the best lawyer I retained. She did not waste anytime with me or try and drag out the situation for more money. Straight and to the point. Alexandra knows the facts that count for your case and is prepared and ready to fight every inch for you. She also is passionate and listens to you in completely so she can better understand what you are going through. I absolutely recommend Alexandra Kardon Rigden for family law or a DV case.
May 5, 2022

Ryan D.
True 5 star Lawyer
Alexandra is by far the best lawyer I retained. She did not waste anytime with me or try and drag out the situation for more money. Straight and to the point. Alexandra knows the facts that count for your case and is prepared and ready to fight every inch for you. She also is passionate and listens to you in completely so she can better understand what you are going through. I absolutely recommend Alexandra Kardon Rigden for family law or a DV case.
May 5, 2022

Ryan D.
Ryan D.
Anonymous "J"
Do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra
Alexandra came as a recommendation from an attorney friend and she was spot on. Alexandra kept me informed through every step of the process during such a difficult time in my life. She explained things in detail and always had my best interest in mind, even when I may not have realized it. As my title says, do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra.
September 7, 2022

Anonymous "J"
Do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra
Alexandra came as a recommendation from an attorney friend and she was spot on. Alexandra kept me informed through every step of the process during such a difficult time in my life. She explained things in detail and always had my best interest in mind, even when I may not have realized it. As my title says, do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra.
September 7, 2022

Anonymous "J"
Anonymous "J"

 (856) 291-9777

714 E. Main Street, 1B
Moorestown, NJ 08057